A product’s life cycle begins with an idea, but it doesn’t end when the product reaches the market, or even when it’s replaced by a new generation or the next big thing. In many cases, companies must provide service and support for years after a product becomes obsolete, and upfront planning is critical.

Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) provides a central repository for all product information. It includes rough drafts and sketches from the design stage, written processes and manufacturing instructions from selling stage, and the end of life strategy and disposal plans. In addition, it ensures that a product’s design stays on schedule and meets any regulatory requirements necessary.

PLM is one of the most critical applications for a company, but it can be hard to navigate the competitive market. This whitepaper provides a comparison framework for understanding the market and choosing the right solution to meet your company’s unique needs.